Something was afoot at the Berkeley Institute on the eve of the recent half-term holiday, and it wasn't just the Sneaks Competition for "Most Original Sneaks," "Most Colourful Sneaks," and "Best Valentine's Sneaks".

On February 5, the Berkeley Institute Student Council announced the grand opening of Gold N' Green Variety, a student run sundries outlet located in the lower atrium at the Berkeley Institute. The shop, which will operate Monday through Friday, from 8.00 to 8.30am and during the lunch hour, from 1.00 to 1.30pm, will be selling snacks as well as non-food items students will find useful, such as toiletries and school supplies.

The shop is intended to be a self-funding initiative catering to students, based on a well-researched business plan created by students.

Principal Michelle Simmons noted: "We are pleased that that the Student Council under the leadership of student president Tori Smith has advanced this initiative. This is our first fully functioning Student Council and they are demonstrating tremendous leadership. We are also grateful for the support of Student Council faculty advisors Ms. Sarah Hopkins, Mr. Steve Lister and Mr. Romeo Ruddock."

President Tori Smith explained the purpose of the Student Council, which includes representatives from all four year levels: "Our mission is to enhance the quality of life of the student body, to help fellow students attain their goals and aspirations, to enrich the school community, and to enhance the community awareness of The Berkeley Institute as a respected institution of secondary learning."

The grand opening of Gold N' Green Variety was launched as a part of the school's Valentine's Day celebration featuring grub day, and an afternoon filled with fun competitions, games, and activities.

In addition to the Sneaks Competition, there was a competition for the cutest couples. Activities included ping-pong in the upper atrium, inflatable boxing in the courtyard, guessing games and activity booths in the lower atrium and Wii and Playstation video games in a classroom.